distinctly smaller than

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "distinctly smaller than" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the size of two or more objects or entities, emphasizing a clear difference in size. Example: "The new model is distinctly smaller than its predecessor, making it easier to handle."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

It seemed distinctly smaller than it had when he was little, like a toy version of the real thing.

The New Yorker

This is, however, distinctly smaller than the true density as calculated for the most complete sampling volume discussed above and is therefore an underestimate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Numerical integrations confirm that such subintervals are distinctly smaller than ((-1, +1)).

Advances in Difference Equations

They are applicable to free surface flows, when the flow thickness is distinctly smaller than the lateral dimension.

Computers & Fluids

The energy gap of (1 0 1) defect surface (1.888 eV) is distinctly smaller than that of (1 0 1) perfect surface (1.951 eV).

Nanoscale Research Letters

Most prosauropods were distinctly smaller than sauropods but were still relatively large, but the oldest and most basal form, Saturnalia, was only about 5 feet (1.5 meters) long.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Intracellular bacteria tend to evolve distinctly smaller genomes than extracellular ancestors, presumably reflecting selective benefits for fewer genes as unnecessary environmental but also DNA repair and replication genes are deleted.

Plosone

This difference in CCP after varying the PaCO2 was in a distinctly smaller range than that observed in our septic patients.

Critical Care

Of the five upper unicuspid teeth, the third distinctly smaller in size than the fourth.

Wikipedia

The regions in which introgressions occurred may possess distinctly smaller nucleotide divergence than the genomic average.

Genome Biology and Evolution

The spontaneous neuronal activity in the MeA was typically low and isolated action potentials were distinctly smaller in magnitude than those encountered dorsal to the MeA we used these distinctive characteristics to improve accurate targeting during the experiment.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "distinctly smaller than", ensure that the comparison is clear and that both items being compared are well-defined for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "distinctly smaller than" when the reference point is unclear or undefined. For example, saying "the updated version is distinctly smaller" is vague without specifying what it's smaller than.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "distinctly smaller than" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that it is smaller than another noun to a noticeable degree. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

16%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "distinctly smaller than" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed comparative phrase used to indicate a clear size difference. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is utilized across diverse contexts, from scientific research to news reporting, with a notable presence in scientific publications. Alternatives include "noticeably smaller than" and "considerably smaller than", depending on the desired level of emphasis. Remember to ensure clarity in your comparisons by specifying the items being compared.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

noticeably smaller than

Emphasizes that the size difference is easily observed or apparent.

considerably smaller than

Highlights a significant or substantial difference in size.

significantly smaller than

Indicates a statistically or practically important difference in size.

markedly smaller than

Stresses that the difference in size is easily noticeable.

appreciably smaller than

Implies that the size difference is large enough to be important or relevant.

measurably smaller than

Indicates that the size difference can be objectively quantified.

substantially smaller than

Indicates a large and important difference in size.

appreciably less than

Similar to 'appreciably smaller than' but with a focus on reduction or decrease.

palpably smaller than

The size difference can easily be felt/understood

a good deal smaller than

Highlights a significant size difference, often used informally.

FAQs

How can I use "distinctly smaller than" in a sentence?

You can use "distinctly smaller than" to compare the sizes of two objects, emphasizing a clear difference. For example, "The new phone model is "distinctly smaller than" its predecessor, making it more pocket-friendly."

What are some alternatives to "distinctly smaller than"?

Some alternatives include "noticeably smaller than", "considerably smaller than", or "significantly smaller than". The best choice depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "distinctly smaller than"?

Use "distinctly smaller than" when you want to emphasize that there is a clear and easily perceived difference in size between two items. It's appropriate when the difference is not marginal but quite obvious.

What's the difference between "distinctly smaller than" and "slightly smaller than"?

"Distinctly smaller than" indicates a significant and obvious difference in size, whereas "slightly smaller than" suggests a minimal and less noticeable difference. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the degree of size difference.